Catching Up with a Friend

<-- During a timequake Gurashi was investigating some 'things' and having a conversation with Calfuray whomst they are still very suss of <3 And Selia 'uncovered' a rune of razing at the quake! But Gurashi's mind was still full of thinks and thoughts about the mysterious ex-Coven mugwump... (RIP I missed the first part of the loggy, sorry)

Calfuray tells you, "Tell me... Why did you ask all those questions about the coven a month before?"
You have emoted: Gurashi's expression changes suddenly as they look off elsewhere, pursing their lips.
Your melodic voice sings into Oathsworn Calfuray, Avower of the Archons's mind, "Vigilance."
Caught in a sudden bout of whimsy, you twirl about the room in idle circles.
Calfuray tells you, "I stopped visiting the cocoon... It pains me too much. Is something happening there that raised such alarms?"
Your melodic voice sings into Oathsworn Calfuray, Avower of the Archons's mind, "I am surprised you would stop visitings - isn't it Her wishes to help heal?"
You have emoted: Gurashi stops twirling, nearly tripping over themselves, caught only by Bizirik, who snorts as the trill crashes into them. "Oomph, sorry."
Calfuray tells you, "If by Her you mean the Lady Empyreal. But you've seen the dreams..."
Your melodic voice sings into Oathsworn Calfuray, Avower of the Archons's mind, "Indeed I have. Is why talked to Her abouts it - the Lady Empyreals."
Your melodic voice sings into Oathsworn Calfuray, Avower of the Archons's mind, "Perhaps you should too."

<-- Cal Leaves, lost some log stuff because I was only really saving the tells

"It attaches, then?" Selia inquires, holding a Great Rune of Razing close to a mechanical clock speculatively. The rune vibrates and launches itself at the clock, adhering in an instant.

You have emoted: Gurashi jumps as the rune sets in place with an audible 'click'. "Ah," They warble. "I think that worked..."

Selia holds a mechanical clock at arm's length, and the item wobbles slightly in her nervously-shaking hand. But after a time, it seems as if it will remain quiescent. For now.

Aeldra claps her hands together merrily.

Calfuray tells you, "Oh? Would... Would you be willing to share Her knowledge? I talked to Her a little but... It doesn't seem She is much pleased with my presence."
Your melodic voice sings into Oathsworn Calfuray, Avower of the Archons's mind, "Why is that? Why would She still be so upsets when you are there to helps Her?"
Calfuray tells you, "Perhaps because She knows my heart will not be Hers."
Your melodic voice sings into Oathsworn Calfuray, Avower of the Archons's mind, "Is still belonging to the Lady of Lagoons, mean?"
Calfuray tells you, "For as long as there is a chance... I will be by Her side."
Calfuray tells you, "I said that when I requested shelter, and I still do."
Your melodic voice sings into Oathsworn Calfuray, Avower of the Archons's mind, "You would not do anything to interrupt the Empyreals's healing, would you? Were there a way? You Love Her, and want Her to get healthy a-gain, right??"
Your melodic voice sings into Oathsworn Calfuray, Avower of the Archons's mind, "Love is painful and exhausting sometimes. I think She would miss you if you stopped coming completely, when She is there, the Lady of Lagoons I mean."
Calfuray tells you, "Is it still healing, witness? Or does the glow dwindle while the magnolias spread?"
Your melodic voice sings into Oathsworn Calfuray, Avower of the Archons's mind, "There are things you and me cannot see or understands. At least I did not. But I talked to the Empyreals, and She laid Her intentions bare. She has no things to hide. I believe fully Her intentions are goodly."

Aeldra inclines her head politely to those around her. <-- she poof

You see the following people here:
Calioliahali, Selia, Gurashi.

You close your eyes and inhale deeply, absorbing the scent of your surroundings.

You let loose a long breath from your lungs, exhaling slowly.

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly slaps their hands against their face and lets out a muffled yell of a sound, wings flapping wildly behind them before they drop their arms at their sides and huff poutily. "Your new runes is SUPER neat," They warble at Selia, wings still flapping. "I yam SORRY am not in a more excited moods abouts it. Being vigilant ... is exhausting!" They squawk.

You fret over everything that might go wrong.

You flop yourself into Bizirik, the leothin's arms.
Perking up, Bizirik, the leothin begins to chitter and thrum, its tail sweeping back and forth across the ground. It cranes its neck to gently headbutt your side contentedly.

Bizirik, the leothin grins smugly.

Calioliahali's gaze shifts to you momentarily.

Selia says to you, "No, not at all!"

Selia says to you, "I...fear, at times, that making this clock more and more dangerous will have consequences, however."

Draped over the leothin's back, you say, "Your clock is super dangerous, yes! The most dangerous clock!"

Calioliahali tells you, "You have been ill at ease since Calfuray's departure. What is the source of your frustration?"

Flashes of a radiant golden anomaly appear as it comes into existence.

You have emoted: Gurashi lolls their head side to side. "I need to learn how to find things in timequakes like you do, Miss Selia. You need to teach me to be more observants."

You look at Calioliahali, expression filled with concern as you frown.

A look of understanding crossing her features, Calioliahali nods her head slowly.

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "*a ripple of color, a sense of bottled-up frustration and anxiety* It is the Bloodtide Covens."

Calioliahali Skydrifter says, "We could all benefit from such observational skills."

You nod your head sagely.

Calioliahali tells you, "I had assumed that it had been dissolved, unless you refer only to her previous membership within it."

You have emoted: Gurashi reaches up to brush their headfeathers out of their face, puffing their cheeks as they sit upright again. "The only thing I find in quakes is like. Pieces of my me, sometimes."

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "...an arm. Or, my crucified selfs."

You stare blankly into space.

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "...that is most certainly an odd sights."

You shudder violently as a chill ripples down your spine.

Selia says, "...that sounds disturbing indeed!"

Selia says, "I cannot imagine who would want to do that kind of thing to you in the first place."

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "She says it is dissolved *their anxiety only increases, and for a moment you too can almost smell the cloying scent of bromelaids* but I have been informed by others it is not. Have seen that the nereids are making their own moves, a-gain. That they want to wake up the Lady Li-varili before the Empyreals is done and are enlisting fate-touched to helps them."

You have emoted: Gurashi fidgets, gently tapping their index finger against their palm. "Uhm. Magnagora," They warble out a laugh.

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "Miss Calfuray acts evasives and unreliable and does not answer questions forthrights. It is my duty to my City to protects it, and so have already reached out to the Star Councils with my concerns, but there is little more we can -do- save for be vigilantly, and find a way to interrupt the nereids' work."

You have emoted: Gurashi nervously scratches at their scarred cheek, looking quite tired. "It is the nature of combats. It is not so bad. You DO get used to it, I swears."

You nod your head sagely at Selia.

Calioliahali tells you, "Ah."

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "Of course do not also want to announce to the city 'get Miss Calfuray', because, that would be cruel. All have is suspicious activities. Have not caught her in act of aiding the nereids. It would be unfair to judge her without actual evidence, but the pieces are starting to ... gather. And it does not look good. It is hard to be fair and kind and vigilant all at once I guess."

You timidly tap your fingers together.

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "I do not believe Miss Lorina is involved. Or if she is she is aiding the Empyreals. I have not run into her to ask, but she has aided the investigatings with Mister Alarin. Am afraid to make a posts, that it might alert the Covens that I know that they are up to things, know? Is like staying a steps ahead, trying to balance one steps ahead, whew."

Calioliahali tells you, "Is there something within New Celest to which only Celestians have access that might aid the nereids in a hypothetical scheme, or do you believe that is the mere act of joining New Celest and claiming repentance as a cover?"

Bizirik, the leothin suddenly bumps into Gurashi, causing the trill to squawk and stumble a few feet away.

Selia says, "...Mm..."

Selia says, "I think that getting used to that kind of thing is...somewhat tragic."

You have emoted: Gurashi warbles as they catch themselves on a nearby wall, spinning around to face the leothin, pointing accusingly.

Bizirik, the leothin grins smugly.

In an airy, melodic voice, you say to Bizirik, the leothin, "Naughty!"

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "I yam awake!"

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "*an anxious thrum* I think ANYONE can aid the nereids, if they choose! They were gonna let ME helps them! Me! Gurashi! *a pause and a thoughtful thrum* I have long feared that her joining the city was a cover, a way to stay close to the Lady of Lagoons. As mentioned previously, she is evasives when asked questions about things, and has yet to show any sort of remorse. She has openly admitted her hearts belongs with the Lady of Lagoons even..."

Pale gold in hue, the wreath about your brow shimmers in a steady pattern, like unto a heartbeat in its gentle pulsation, crowning you in a flickering halo before settling still once more.

You have emoted: Gurashi inhales slowly, scratching at their chest. "It is the natures of combats," They warble to Selia. "I remember being reeeally young and being upset. So upset!"

You flail about helplessly.

In an airy, melodic voice, you say to Selia, "It is kind of cruel, kind of unbelievable that can get used to that sorts of things at all, I do agree, I do."

You huff, puffing your cheeks.

Discordant buzzing erupts from the south as a swarm of ravenous shadows leave Ethna in their wake, her form cloaked in smoldering darkness.

After much surveying of the locale, Ethna flutters her wings in triumph before you notice the faeling perched upon your shoulder.

In an airy, melodic voice, you say to Selia, "Is why, is important to ..."

You boggle at Ethna.

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "M-Miss Ethna!"

You boggle at Ethna.

With a dulcet, mellifluous voice, Lady Ethna Shee-Slaugh, the Predator's Spider asks you, "Did Bizi bully my brother like I asked?"

Bizirik, the leothin grins smugly.

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "I-I think so."

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "B-Bizirik bullies many..."

Bizirik, the leothin grins even more smugly, tail slapping the ground behind it.

You blush furiously.

With a dulcet, mellifluous voice, Lady Ethna Shee-Slaugh, the Predator's Spider says to Bizirik, the leothin, "I owe you lots of shrimpies when I next wake up."

Bizirik, the leothin gives a short gasp of elation.

Bizirik, the leothin nods her head at Ethna.

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles weakly.

Ethna gives you a peck on the cheek.

Ethna inclines her head politely to those around her.

Ethna waves goodbye.

You blush furiously.

Ethna steps through a golden rift, vanishing from view as the clarion peal of a bell sounds through the air.

You have emoted: Gurashi claps a hand on their face at the tiny faeling's affection, plumage ruffling up to make them appear twice their normal size. "Oh, I thoughts she was lost to sleeps... thank goodness is not..."

Selia smiles and says, "Ah, a friend of yours."

You have emoted: Gurashi's wings flap, and they nod. "She is..." They consider. "She is my cousinling's wifey. So she is my ... cousinling-in-law...?"

You have emoted: Gurashi taps their fingers together, frowning.

Wondering aloud, you say, "...thinks still likes me."

You ponder the situation.

You nod your head sagely.

You nod your head sagely at Bizirik, the leothin.
Perking up, Bizirik, the leothin begins to chitter and thrum, its tail sweeping back and forth across the ground. It cranes its neck to gently headbutt your side contentedly.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts.

Calioliahali tells you, "Know that I will stand with you, whatever it is that is decided to be done about any potential conspirators."

You blink.

You look at Calioliahali hopefully.

Selia smiles and says to you, "Ah, but...can also be a friend."

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Selia.

Selia thinks to herself: An aquamancer would love it here, no doubt.

Awkwardly, you say to Selia, "Well a lot of peoples were mad at me before, yes. And I could never tell if she was one of them, but, she was nicely to me now, so, I think she must not be so muchly."

You have emoted: Gurashi warbles curiously, then twirls in place, kicking up some of the water from the ground as they do so in response to Selia's comment.

Calioliahali tells you, "The Board still has not made a public declaration about Lorina's status, which is not necessarily an indication of apathy, but it is not encouraging."

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "Yeah I ..."

You have emoted: Gurashi stops spinning, looking dizzy, waving their arms in the air.

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "Ouwah."

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "Too much."

Bizirik, the leothin grins smugly.

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "Neither has the Star Councils. I wrote a whole letter asking about it a few months ago, just asking that the Councils ask Miss Calfuray a few basic questions - even I had a more difficult time joining New Celest than she, which is not a fair comparisons, but am upset that nobody ... asked her simple questions. It is not encouraging is a good word for it. The opposite of that. Is how I feel abouts it! Anxious, not encouraging ... hence: vigilant!"

Your shoulders bunch as you let out a short giggle.

You have emoted: Gurashi shakes out their head, then looks up curiously. "Ah, the quakes is almost over..."

Selia says, "Too much?"

In an airy, melodic voice, you say to Selia, "Yeah I spun too fast."

In an airy, melodic voice, you say to Selia, "Do you ever spin in place? My records is four."

You nod your head sagely.

You glance askance.

Calioliahali tells you, "There is no need to apologize."

Selia says to you, "I can't say that I have..!"

In an airy, melodic voice, you say to Selia, "It is a fun game! Should try it, sometime."

You nod your head sagely.

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "Just ... spin as fast as you can on one leggy. Better if the grounds is wet."

(OOC Clan): Calioliahali says, "This is such a juxtaposition fam like holy."
(OOC Clan): Calioliahali says, "Lmfao."

You nod your head sagely.

A warm light suffuses Spires of Glomborolum as a radiant golden anomaly is released from its captivity.

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "Oh!"

You step through a clarion golden rift as the peal of a bell sounds all about you, at once soothing and utterly deafening. As you look about, you find yourself in your native timeline once more.
Selia follows you ether.
Deep in the foul waters of the Sea of Despair.
Strong undercurrents swirl about the dark, tainted ocean waters. Though some light filters in from above, the viscous and oily waters are cloudy and thick with pollution. Fish float by, horrifically deformed with tumours and bulbous protrusions that do not seem natural. Even the small brine shrimp have abnormally large mouths and sharp teeth. Miasmic masses of what could be some sort of mutated marine life or simply bloody remains float throughout the waters. A radiant rift cleaves the air, the peal of a clarion bell resounding from within. Snortling in the sandy depths, a marine rockeater searches for munchables. A giant isopod scuttles about, its fore maxillipeds snapping agitatedly. With cloudy wings of ethereal mist unfurled, a pure white gryphon is here, shrouded in fathomless darkness. Calioliahali Skydrifter looms here, lingering with an unsettling aura of strict severity.
You see exits leading east, west, up, down, and through a radiant golden rift.

You sway anxiously in your spot.

You have emoted: Gurashi huffs and puffs a bit, rubbing the back of their neck. "Ahhh... that is done..."

Your wings flap excitedly behind you.

You have emoted: Gurashi still seems distracted, looking out across the sea floor, pursing their lips.

You see the following people here:
Calioliahali, Selia, Gurashi.

Bizirik, the leothin tilts her head and listens intently to you.

For what it's worth, Selia seems a bit out of things at the moment, also.

Coral spires pierce the skyline, the vision washing away as an Immaculate Timequake ends. Time flows smoothly once more.

You have emoted: Gurashi shakes out their head, then warbles in surprise as the rift closes up behind them. "OUWHahha," They bounce away, wings cutting through the water.

You narrow your eyes, peering about suspiciously.

Bizirik, the leothin grins smugly.

Calioliahali tells you, "It is, in some way, a comfort that you have some indication of the scheming that has occurred."

You have emoted: Gurashi makes a face, then exhales, sending bubbles upwards as they do so. "Please forgives my head," They say to their companions. "For my distractions. My thinks! My mind is a-filled with thems."

You have emoted: Gurashi gently knocks upon their temple thrice. "I am not usually needing to be so smart."

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "Some comfort! Muchly frustrations."

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "I do not want to scream into a void and I will feel most dreadful if it turns out I am wrong."

A cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals emits a few delicate clicks as she gently tilts her head to gaze at something of interest.

Even underwater, Selia resembles a mass of clothes that happen to be standing up, though admittedly with more swirling as the currents slide to and fro. A stray brine shrimp tumbles past and hits her in the head.

You look at a cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals hopefully.
A cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals's crystalline form shifts to a cool sky-blue colour as she looks about.

Calioliahali tells you, "I had speculated that your Empyreal's healing efforts may have been diverted to some nefarious purpose, such as incubating a parsitic creature within Li-varili. If the cultists only seek to prematurely awaken Her, then that is at the very least a lesser concern, and perhaps encouragement to continue the healing efforts."

Bizirik, the leothin watches the brine shrimp as it passes, then immediately swims after it, nearly knocking Selia over as it does so.

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "Ah! Oh! Bizi! Be careful!"

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "There is a peoples there!"

Calioliahali glances askance at Selia.

Bizirik, the leothin ignores Gurashi, chasing off after the shrimp in its excitement, managing to lose it as it finds refuge in a cluster of rocks.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts indignantly, clawing at the stone.

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "I ... have troubles, seeing muchly of a difference. Though, I guess to be tainted would be very badly. But also, to wake Her before Her healings is all done ... She would still be in muchly pains. And pain makes peoples and Peoples very irritables."

You have emoted: Gurashi turns their attention again to the polytope, their pupils dilating to the size of dinner plates as the creature hums, sound carrying out through the water.

Calioliahali tells you, "We have an understanding of Li-varili and Her motives, as well as Her capabilities, however. We would have no understanding of a yet unrevealed entity lurking within Her or Her cocoon."

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "*assent - assent - assent...*."

Golden shades radiate from your chest and your heart beats faster with newly-appeared determination.

Your melodic voice sings into Calioliahali Skydrifter's mind, "You are very goodly to talks about even with bigly things, did anyone ever tell you this? I feel a little lessly stupids. We should talks more really."

Calioliahali tells you, "I enjoy our conversations as well."

A pure white gryphon with cloudy wings of ethereal mist paws the ground and huffs, which snaps Selia to attention. "Right," she enthuses. Sorath is eager to return to the Astral Plane. I will indulge him!

Selia smiles and says, "Be well, friends."

Selia, riding a pure white gryphon with cloudy wings of ethereal mist, leaves to the west, emanating an aura of immense power.
With a fierce cry, a pure white gryphon flaps his cloudy wings of ethereal mist and flies off to the west.

You have emoted: Gurashi glances at Seli again, canting their head dramatically to the side as they study the demi-divine. "Would you like--" They stop as suddenly she speaks and is gone, leaving them mid-sentence.

You stare blankly into space.

Your melodic voice sings into Selia's mind, "A-ah! You as well."

You see the following people here:
Calioliahali, Gurashi.

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to stare blankly, attempting to reconfigure their thoughts, sentence interrupted mid-word.

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly shakes out their head wildly, then squawks out a laugh. "Oh! She is gone!"

Calioliahali nods her head affirmatively.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says, "It is good that she has overcome her affliction. It did not appear to be a pleasant experience."

You have emoted: Gurashi shakes their head. "I-I think she did that things I do, sometimes, where you just kinda becomes a statues, and forget what you are doing becaues you are so lost in your head? Do you ever get like that sometimes?" They wave a hand through the air where Selia once was, though there is obviously nothing left. "Heads are easy to get lost in."

You look at Calioliahali hopefully.

A look of understanding crossing her features, Calioliahali nods her head slowly.

Suddenly, you say to Calioliahali, "I would keeps talking to you now if you were free! But the months is young and I do not wanna keeps you from doing your you-stuffs."

Your wings flap excitedly behind you.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "I am available to you for the foreseeable future, Gurashi."

Calioliahali begins to follow you.

==== Calioliahali is following you ====

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks a few times, their wings flapping behind them, cutting through the water. "Ah! Oh! Uhmmm," They wiggle, looking up at Calioliahali as the trill falls in line behind them. "Would you like to picks a place? Is there anywhere you would likes to go? Anywhere in Hallifax? Ooooor..." They perk up. "We could sits in my shops? Have I already shown yous?"

A cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals emits a few delicate clicks as she gently tilts her head to gaze at something of interest.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "I am aware of your shop's existence, but I do not recall visiting it. I would be amenable to resolving that issue now."

You face lights up as you smile brightly at a cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals.
A cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals hovers in mid-air, swaying gently at your approach.

You have emoted: Gurashi's eyes widen again. "Ooh! O-K! O-K, stay closely to meee, because we will go...fast," They insist, wings flapping once.
Ready for a new adventure, you point boldly towards the horizon and declare in a proud tone, "Onward!"

Calioliahali nods her head affirmatively.

Calioliahali follows you west.
You speedwalk west to The Humblebee Patisserie.
You have reached your destination.
The Humblebee Patisserie.
This location is flooded with shallow, crystal clear water. The pastel-hued gravel of Nautilus Pompilus street gives way to colorful flagstone as one approaches the open front of this timber-framed, single-story building. Exterior wooden supports have been lovingly carved to resemble the gnarled exterior of trees and winding branches for a supporting lattice that sits above a quaint patio. Boughs of verdant ivy and purple clematis cling to the supports and hang down from the lattice, offering a distraction for insects that might otherwise be interested in the sweets. The storefront itself is brightly colored to match its surroundings, double glass doors propped open on sunny days to let the fresh smells of baked goods drift out into the streets. A sweet-sounding bell hangs poised atop the door's frame to announce the arrival of customers on poor weather days. The shop's cozy interior allows standing room for only a few visitors at a time to comfortably gather. A poppy-shaped lantern hangs from the low rounded ceiling, bathing the room in warm golden light. Dark wood floors offset the rose-gold interior walls where short shelves hold an assortment of curiosities and tiny sprouting planters all lovingly tended to. A simple counter and glass-front display houses the day's specials, and a chalkboard mounted overhead lists the specials of the month and how much they cost. A sign here suggests you READ SIGN! A cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals hovers here, whirring with a thrum of latent power. Completely motionless, a slender leothin intently surveys its surroundings. Calioliahali Skydrifter looms here, lingering with an unsettling aura of strict severity. You see a sign here instructing you that WARES is the command to see what is for sale.
You see exits leading east (open door) and down (closed door).

"Tada!" you say with a proud expression on your face.

You have emoted: Seawater still dripping from their plumage, Gurashi hops open to the door, propping it open despite the rain, allowing Calioliahali to step foot inside. "Welcome, welcome!"

LOOKIT ME
They are a feathered trill kindly demigod changeling. Downy plumes of vibrant orange cascade in a tumble around their head, the cluster of feathers stopping just short of their shoulders and moving at the slightest breeze. A cluster of snow-white feathers grow near their right temple. A natural mask of downy black feathers have sprouted around their eyes, covering the upper portion of their face and fading in with the colorful orange feathers at the hairline and temples. A moderately-sized, crescent-shaped scar mars their right cheek, pink where it would otherwise be black. A hint of discolored flesh can be seen at the center of their sternum, mostly obscured by their clothing. Two tufts of feathers gather where their ears would normally be, adorned by long, curling feathers that react to their mood. Their eyes are wide and inquisitive, a stunning gray that looks almost blue against the bright orange and striking black feathers. They stand just shy of six foot even, with a thin, willowy build, their skin sandy and smooth. Hanging half-limp behind them are a pair of great apricot-colored wings, the covert feathers nearest to their back the same ebony-violet as the feathers that cover their brow and cheekbones. Their wings are sleek and shiny, evidence of recent grooming efforts. A brilliant ivory light suffuses the air about them, pulsing occasionally with a sense of childlike joy.
They are wearing:
a starry wreath of celestial light set atop their head like a halo
an ebon throwover cloak striated with lilac patterns wrapped protectively about their form
a circlet of crystal thorns resting loosely atop their head
a vivid red-orange poppy tucked lovingly behind their left ear
the Mantle of Starlight which flows dreamily about their shoulders and back
a breezy blue cotton tunic which hangs flatteringly from their form
mercurial Mysraian prayer beads pulled taut against their right wrist
a Glomdoring friendship bracelet which jingles softly on their left wrist
minty citrus incense beads pulled taut against their right wrist
aromatic cedar and cinnamon incense beads pulled taut against their right wrist
a crystalline poppy with inlaid smoke worn delicately upon their left wrist
a driftwood ring of sea breezes fitted tightly to their left middle finger
a pair of black trousers bearing silver stars which fit their shape nicely
Refined Boots of the Paladin, worn and weathered from use.

LOOKIT CALIO
She is a feathered storm trill demigoddess, a statuesque and imposing woman that stands well over six and a half feet tall. Her face is full of strong, rough edges, evoking imagery from a battlefield: her skin's hue is reminiscent of dusty, sun-bleached bones, long since stripped of their flesh and vitality; her lips are the tone of blackened earth, and her eyes the tint of a cloudless morning sky polluted by plumes of smoke. The feathers that adorn her head, the expansive wings upon her back, and much of the rest of her body are the color of a stream into which bodies were carelessly thrown, their blood staining the water. At the end of each of her well-muscled arms are hands hardened by callouses, and the nails that tip each of her fingers are curved and appear to have been sharpened, giving them a talon-like quality.
She is wearing:
an austere suit of full plate
a pair of disciplined roseate wings, protruding dutifully from her back through slots in her armor
a serviceable grey cloak with a dodecahedron clasp
a crystalline cloudberry brooch, pinned to the right side of her cloak
the Quintessential Mandala of Resplendent Harmony, partially obscured by her cloak
an unadorned iron and leather scabbard, secured to the right side of her waist
a utilitarian pouch, secured to the left side of her waist.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts, not bothering to wait for the trill as it saunters right in and finds a spot near the counter to rest.

Calioliahali quietly scans her surroundings as she enters the shop, eventually nodding once. "I indeed do not recall this locale. It seems appropriate for your disposition."

Muffled laughter echoes from somewhere outside.

Warbling happily, you say, "Yeah! I was so nervous when I gots it - Miss Xiran helped me comes up with a name, and Bizi helped me make the sign." They gesture to the leothin, who snorts from the floor, placidly watching the two trills explore. "Thank you! I thinks so too."

A look of understanding crossing her features, Calioliahali nods her head slowly.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says, "Forgive me, but what is the significance of the name?"

You have emoted: Gurashi lets the front door close gently, watching the rain pelt against the streets outside and wet the few patio tables and chairs intended for customers. "It is a little nicer when the weather is better," They confess. "I open up the doors so peoples can just go in and out freely. Not so muchly these days..." They turn to the few tables and chairs that ARE inside the small shop, gesturing for one. "Feel free to make yourselfs at home if want! Or can stand - whatever's comfortablest."

You eyes light up as you smile.

In an airy, melodic voice, you ask, "Humblebee Patisserie?"

Calioliahali nods her head emphatically.

Calioliahali closes the distance between herself and the indicated chair with a pair of long, quick steps, taking a seat as suggested. She quietly regards you thereafter.

You have emoted: Gurashi turns back to Calioliahali with a smile. "Ah! It is a mix of a play on words, and also, a real words..." They look up thoughtfully at the chalkboard bearing prices and the shop's name as well. "I am a bumblebee signs, yes. It is the star signs I was born under. So peoples are call me a bumblebee. But I do not like to do or say many things for myselfs, so, instead am a -humblebee-." They laugh, "Hence the play-upon-words! And, ah."

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "Patisserie is a shops for things. Pastries! Of which I have."

Your shoulders bunch as you let out a short giggle.

Bizirik, the leothin sniffs at Calioliahali's wing where it brushes on the ground near them, tail raising and then slapping on the ground once more.

You have emoted: Gurashi gestures towards the nearby glass-fronted counter. "See? Many pastries and sweets. Friend-shaped foods."

Bizirik's head begins to droop. It opens its great maw and curls back its lips to allow its forked tongue to unfurl as it yawns before snapping its mouth shut.

Calioliahali spares Bizirik, the leothin a glance, allowing the creature to snort and snuffle at her wing however she might wish. She then returns her attention to you, offering a slow nod. "The Patisserie portion of the name was not a mystery, but thank you for clarifying. I am uncertain how I would feel about being identified based upon my birth sign, but Humblebee is not the least pleasing designation I have heard."

You have emoted: Gurashi warbles softly, then moves to join Calioliahali at the small table, pulling out one of the chairs for themselves and plopping into it cross-legged, letting their wings hang over the back of the chair onto the ground just the same.

You eyes light up as you smile.

In an airy, melodic voice, you say to Calioliahali, "I did not really care muchly for astrologies myselfs. But was told that, bumblebees are very social peoples, typically. Those under the bumblebees signs focus on their communities and tend to make friends," They sway in their spot. "Even in the Glomdoring the Lady of Roses called me 'Her bumblebee'," They say this, a look of disbelief on their face. "I mean. Used to! I am still a bumblebees signs. I do not mind it. I agree, it could be worse. I have heard much worstly names."

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Calioliahali.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says, "I have an admiration for the kephera and their Hives, which are similar to creatures such as bees and ants. I will gladly align myself with one such bumblebee."

Your shoulders bunch as you let out a short giggle.

You have emoted: Gurashi watches Calioliahali even as they giggle. "Do you have a shops? I know your sibling does, Azazilliy. I have been there, seens it." They shift to be more comfortable with their crossed legs. "Or do you help with their's?"

You tilt your head and listen intently to Calioliahali.

Whether from the sea or the rain, a friendless mist sheathes the city in sparkling vapour and a bitter, kniving chill.

The clouds overhead rumble ominously and bolts of lightning strike the ground, followed closely by peals of furious thunder.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "I do not possess a shop of my own, but I do aid Azazilliy in stocking theirs, yes. The family in its entirety makes such an effort."

You have emoted: Gurashi leans forward, resting their elbows on the table, crossing their arms. A bitter wind rattles the glass doors for a time, causing them to look over their shoulders, watching the storm rage on outside before turning to look at Calioliahali, giving her their full and undivided attention.

You have emoted: Gurashi's feathery ear twitches in response to something unseen, though they do not turn their eyes away. "Ah! So it is ... their shops but also, a family shops. Oh, they are so lucky to have so much help with stocking," They laugh, wings flapping. "Must be very proud, yes, to have such a well-doing business in the family's name. To serves all of Hallifax and thenseomes - like me!" They chirp.

You have emoted: Gurashi raises their arms overhead in their enthusiasm, then pauses. "Oh, I am so rude. I did not offer you any sorts of refreshments. Miss Cali - would you likes a drink or snacky?"

You blush furiously.

Calioliahali's gaze shifts momentarily to the weather outside, although there is a sense that her attention remains fixated upon you, even before her smoky blue eyes redirect themselves. "It is a Collective endeavor, as any, and we are all pleased to contribute, I believe." Her black-tinted lips quirk at the corners momentarily, then, and she offers a shake of her head. "I do not require any refreshments, although I would not decline any offered to me. I have not yet encountered something of yours that I do not in some fashion enjoy."

You have emoted: Gurashi drops their hands to their side, hands on their hips even as they sit cross-legged in the chair, making them look a bit ridiculous. "You are my guest! My best guest," They warble, untangling their legs and scrambling away from their seat to the counter, examining what they've got. "Oh! You are much too kindly to say," They laugh, skin pink as they wave a hand dismissively before settling on a New Celestian breakfast platter. They set the plate before Calioliahali, then clamber back up into their chair, only not to sit, but to crouch, balancing awkwardly. "Here. You can picks and choose, are many things upon it," They insist. "And it is healthy and fortified so will stay full for days if eat the whole things. En-joy!"

You give a New Celestian breakfast platter to Calioliahali Skydrifter.

You nod your head emphatically.

You have emoted: Gurashi glances down as the poppy upon their wrist's petals abruptly change color, causing them to smile and investigate it for a time before looking opposite to their guest, beaming.

A cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals whirrs and chirps, then suddenly emits a series of loud humming noises.

You face lights up as you smile brightly at a cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals.
A cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals takes a deep breath as the crystal surface of her face softens and shifts in colour, a muted glow appearing within.

You think to yourself: So c u t e.

You have emoted: Gurashi is momentarily enthralled by the polytope as it hovers placidly nearby, plumage quivering with delight.

Calioliahali nods her gratitude as she receives the veritable feast contained within a New Celestian breakfast platter. Within moments, she systematically consumes everything laid before her, ensuring that there is not a speck remaining upon the platter, nor any traces that any food had passed through her lips or fingers. When she has finished, she nods once more, gratefully. "Thank you, Gurashi. It was satisfactory."

There is a slight pause in the rain as the storm clouds part, letting in a trickle of sunlight to cast spangled rainbows through the air as if the sky were stained glass.

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks, watching the other trill consume the platter without leaving so much as a crumb behind. They gently squish their own flushed cheeks, warbling softly in amazement. "I am so glad," Their reverie continues before it is replaced with familiar joy. "Many thank yous for trying it!!"

Calioliahali pulls her hands back toward herself once they have been sufficiently cleaned, folding them neatly in her lap. "It was a mutually beneficial arrangement."

A golden firefly squid drags itself in.
Able to fit in the palm of a hand, this golden firefly squid toy squirms in random, spasmodic movements due to a clockwork mechanism hidden within. The top portion, smooth and long, carries two glittering, almost comically large eyes while a pair of lips have been stitched just below in a wide, happy smile. Below its body are dozens of writhing tentacles that flail about uselessly, the tips of each adorned with a tiny gem.
It weighs about 1 pounds and 14 ounce(s).
It bears the distinctive mark of Wyrden Auspice Esei Shee-Slaugh of the Ascending Dusk.
A golden firefly squid flails about helplessly.
A golden firefly squid scuttles away.

Your shoulders bunch as you let out a short giggle.

You have emoted: Gurashi watches the squid as it enters and departs, looking bizarrely towards it as it manages to squeeze its way through the gap in the door and back out the same way. A flap of their wings, and they turn forward again, awkwardly balancing on the chair. "How are you doing, these days? What is newly news, for yous?" They fold their arms over the table, watching Calioliahali curiously. "What is new in the life of Calio~lia~ha~li~?" They warble in a happy sing-song voice, canting their head dramatically to the side.

You look at Calioliahali hopefully.

Calioliahali does not divert her attention to the errant squid, instead thoughtfully considering you for a long moment. "I am uncertain what bears mentioning and of which you are already not aware. I have been avoiding the worst of the flooding when necessary, which is a trivial matter." As if to demonstrate, her roseate wings expand gingerly for a fraction of a second before returning to their resting state. "I have also been invested in the rearing of this creature," she gestures to a cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals, "and I have finally processed your musings about your Divine." She pauses for a moment, then offers, unbidden, "I agree with your choice thus far to abstain from this poppy milk. You are best as you are now, mistakes and perceived imperfections laid bare."

There is a slight pause in the rain as the storm clouds part, letting in a trickle of sunlight to cast spangled rainbows through the air as if the sky were stained glass.

You face lights up as you smile brightly at Calioliahali.

Singing drifts in from outside, faintly muffled.

Sheets of rain pelt the rooftops of the city: an orchestra of noises that leaves every shingle, window, and gutter slick or waterlogged.

The Mantle of Starlight flows gently against your form, twinkling stars shifting across its surface as the starry infinity continues its eternal motion.

You have emoted: Gurashi listens to Calioliahali, leaning forward so they may untuck one of their legs, legging it hang normally from the chair though the other remains belt and awkwardly perched. Their gaze too drifts over to the nearby polytope, whom they flash a broad toothy smile to as if it knows they are speaking about it. Then, they blink, and look back at Calioliahali curiously. "...ah..."

You blush furiously.

You have emoted: Gurashi sways in their seat, their face flushed at the comment. "...ah, oh. You are kindly, to thinks so. Says so."

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "It is a matter that has remained on my mind since the previous month. While there are certainly constructs that may be purposed toward performing tasks in a manner which may be undisturbed by hesitation and emotions, we are not such beings, and I believe there is value lost in stripping ourselves of the ability to determine which actions are most ideal."

Calioliahali Skydrifter says, "Losing something such as a cherished memory, or a deeply regretful one, would negatively affect your ability to pursue desirable courses or avoid undesirable ones."

Bizirik, the leothin sniffs at the visiting trill's wing, still very near to where the creature has chosen to rest. Gurashi meanwhile stares back at Calioliahali, their gray eyes wide, face still red where their downy plumage does not mask their skin. "Yes," They warble gently in agreement, gaze seeming a bit wetter now than it was a few moments prior. "Then, there is the Portal of Fates..." They say this, making a little gesture with their hand before looking back at Calioliahali curiously. Slowly they fold their hands together, other leg unfolding to join the other below the table so that they may lean forward, watching their companion curiously. "Do you remember anything? From before the Portals..."

Gently, you ask Calioliahali, "You already knew, your family. You, had all of your family... did you all remember everything? From your youths? Or, were just to-gether, so... it was O-K?"

You think to yourself: *the entire visit, their mind has been a flurry of whirling pastel colors mingling together, separating and meeting again - they are relaxed, moreso than they've been the last few months put together*.

Geometric patterns zip and swirl about a cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals enthusiastically, reflecting a spectrum of prismatic colours.

Calioliahali maintains eye contact with you so long as she has your attention. "My memory is imperfect, but it is mostly intact concerning our pre-Portal history. We lived upon Icewynd, assisting with the tending of the cloudberries so that we may feed ourselves. Qillilitli was then as she is now, our de facto leader. Where she led, we followed, and I endeavored then, as I do now, to support her as best as I was capable."

Calioliahali Skydrifter says, "Our full number, to my knowledge, in order of birth, is Qillilitli and Azazilliy, then Mmellialleh, Fillirriqili, and myself. If we possessed more siblings, that memory is lost to us."

You blink.

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks again owlishly, leaning forward, cupping their face, squishing their cheeks as they lean against the table with their elbows. "I remembers you saying lived in Icewynd.... it is very chilly there, so cold." They warble in understanding. "But to thinks that followed each others out, all to-gether. Wowee, that is suchly a bonds," They whisper in quiet amazement. They drop their hands, canting their head to the side. "I would have never guessed you were the youngest. I always thought you was the oldest, because you are always so very collected, and maturely, and look after your siblings so well." They smile, their wings flapping behind them. "That is amazing...!"

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "It was perhaps an overcompensation that I developed a tendency toward self-discipline and vigilance. I desired to contribute at least as much as the remainder of my siblings, and adopting this approximation to knighthood seemed both then and now the best method by which I might do so."

Softly, you say, "Knighthoods..."

You gaze softens as you smile.

Canting their head the other way, you ask Calioliahali, "Are you happy?" They pause, as if picking and choosing their words carefully. "It is not always easy to put everybody else a-fore you. I know I have struggled withs it - but you is not me and I yam not you. I have read your books, your creeds. It seems like you do not ask muchly for yourselfs if ever at all. Do you ever minds?"

A flash! Another! And another still! The storm clouds above shudder from the onslaught of lightning, their silvery down woven with hidden scripture illuminated from within.

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks owlishly, looking a bit stupid only to JUMP in their seat at the lightning as it crashes outside. "Ah!" They look over their shoulder, dazed and then amazed. "The storms rage so loud near here - we are so close to the sea. Sorry." They turn to face Calioliahali again as their plumage relaxes, feathers puffed up twice their size in their fright. "Sorry. Maybe that was a weirdly questions, just the sames..."

Calioliahali does not seem to so much as flinch as the storm continues outside the shop, her gaze still fixed squarely upon you. "I have long found the act of performing services, whether recognized or otherwise, satisfactory. It is the knowledge that I have performed to the best of my ability at the time, pending further improvements, that allows me to persist further. Every mistake or failure is then an opportunity to learn and hone myself, so that I may yet server more ably."

You have emoted: Gurashi lets out a curious little trill, studying Calioliahali's face thoughtfully as Calioliahali_she replies. "I see," They coo, swaying in their seat, leaning back, hands folded before them. They lace their fingers together, twiddling their thumbs.

You have emoted: Gurashi's plumage ruffles up at the lightning once more, but they seem much less surprised, ears already flat atop their head as they consider what they've just heard, mouth quirked to the side.

You gaze softens as you smile at Calioliahali.

Calioliahali's smoky blue gaze continues to fixate upon you, absently scanning your face and form, seeming to linger upon the plumage which has so recently been ruffled. "You shift forms often. Is there a purpose to it? Is it a concerted effort, or something that occurs naturally? Are you able to anticipate when you will be capable of flying, and when you must tread upon the ground?"

Spidery fingers of crimson lightning flash across the tumultuous skies, gripping the parapets of Deep Blue Cathedral like the hand of an angry god before letting go.

You have emoted: Gurashi seems like they are about to say another thing, but quickly catch themselves, puffing their cheeks, letting Calioliahali speak. "Ah! Ouwah!" They lean forward excitedly. "A purpose? Oh my, yes! Maybe?" With a shimmy of their shoulders they express. "It is, a little bit of a preference, I suppose! My firstly times not being a kephera..."

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly leans back in their seat, staring up at the ceiling with a fond expression on their face. "It was not a changeling magics. It was the magics of an artifact, yes. But oh, the world looked sooooo differently. And everything FELT different. And -smelled- different." They look at Calioliahali again, ears standing up straight. "It was the most wonderful thing! I was able to see all of my favorite places and peoples, and it was like seeing them all again with fresh eyes. A most wonderous of things."

In an airy, melodic voice, you say to Calioliahali, "It was harder to control, in the beginning, after .... ah, 'unlocked', my inner changelings?" Their wings flap at this. "I had muchly troubles knowing when was a goodly times to be what shapes. Also, I ruined SO many PANTS as a KEPHERA. My leggy spikes!" They kick out their leg from under the table, but a foot away from Calioliahali's seat, "They poke holes in everything."

You have emoted: Gurashi drops their leg back under the table, point made, staring at Calioliahali with quiet but excited anticipation.

Calioliahali nods quietly as she listens to you and your explanation, gaze drawn downwards briefly to the thrusted limb. "It is an intriguing process, the ability to obtain so many different perspectives while maintaining some semblance of your own identity. I do not believe I have a personal interest in ever becoming anything but a trill, but I will admit to a sense of pleasant surprise each time our paths cross, not solely because you have become such a trusted ally and friend." She pauses for a moment, then continues, "I believe it is not unlike your experience with your Divine. I have come to expect that you do not remain in any one form for long, and I recognize your presence even when you take an unfamiliar one. I have not yet met a version of you which I have found displeasing."

You blink.

Calioliahali nods quietly as she listens to you and your explanation, gaze drawn downwards briefly to the thrusted limb. "It is an intriguing process, the ability to obtain so many different perspectives while maintaining some semblance of your own identity. I do not believe I have a personal interest in ever becoming anything but a trill, but I will admit to a sense of pleasant surprise each time our paths cross, not solely because you have become such a trusted ally and friend." She pauses for a moment, then continues, "I believe it is not unlike your experience with your Divine. I have come to expect that you do not remain in any one form for long, and I recognize your presence even when you take an unfamiliar one. I have not yet met a version of you which I have found displeasing."

You have emoted: The trill's plumage puffs up again at the conclusion of the statement, and they hang their head, letting out a low warbling sound. "Am usually ... ahh, very orange," Gurashi explains shyly, shifting in their seat, seeming flustered. Behind Calioliahali, Bizirik snorts and looks on wearing its usual smug expression. "Y-yes, I feel, ah, uh, a closeness, to Thems actually, in this way," They say, voice cracking, causing them to clear their throat, offering Calioliahali a blushing smile. "I remember a time before I was even Beloved, when They was so gracious to show me the many things I could be..." They look up, for a time seeing something unseen, remembering something fondly. "Am pretty sure I wrote abouts the visits, visiting Thems before I was ready to join, helping when They were bleeding. I could see me, in so many shapes even then..." They whisper reverently.

The Quintessential Mandala of Resplendent Harmony suddenly begins to glow from its place over Calioliahali's chest until its many gemstones shine with a near-blinding incandescence before dimming to its normal brilliance, ripples of harmonic energy emanating for several moments after.

You have emoted: Gurashi looks at Calioliahali, blushing again. "You are very sweetly to says nones of my shapes are displeasing cause I gots a lot of thems." Their wings flap. "You are a very goodly trill, a very goodly you, yes. I couldn't imagine you any other ways!" They chirp, flashing a toothy smile.

Bizirik, the leothin grins smugly.

You have emoted: Gurashi seems to be pondering something, though they also seem to be waiting for Calioliahali to respond, cupping their own chin.

The scent of lightning, burnt yet crystalline, salts the air, your nostrils noting its aroma just before the initial crack of thunder echoes across the roiling skies.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "I do remember reading about your experience while you were still within Glomdoring, forbidden from doing what it seems you were always drawn to do." She pauses, the corners of her black lips flickering upward once more. "Thank you for the assessment, though I have been considering that thought, recently."

You tilt your head and listen intently to Calioliahali.

Warbling, you ask, "Considering that thoughts?"

You have emoted: Gurashi shimmies their shoulders and leans forward again, elbows on the table, folding their hands so they may rest their chin atop their folded fingers, blinking owlishly.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "Recently, the Chairwoman has put forward to the Collective a referendum pertaining to the raising of Vernal Ascendants. There is the potential for two such individuals to be affected in such a manner. There are of course many suitable candidates, and yet my sister has suggested that she would support me, were it possible."

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "I had not honestly entertained the thought that I would ever be worthy of such a process, but I have since been considering if such a role were assigned to me, what it might do to me physiologically or psychologically."

You have emoted: Gurashi's jaw drops, mouth forming a perfect 'o' of surprise. "Oh! You? A Vernal Ascendants!" They gasp, looking pleased, head rising from their hands. "That is wonderful! Oh, but." They pause. "That would be a bigly deals, wouldn't it..."

You tilt your head and listen intently to Calioliahali.

Curious, you say to Calioliahali, "Phy-si-o-logically??" They warble, repeating the word before adding, "psy-cho-logically..."

In an airy, melodic voice, you say, "Your body and brains, you means."

You tilt your head and listen intently to Calioliahali.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "Correct."

You have emoted: Gurashi blinks. "Do you thinks you would change?" They wonder. "Are worried might change?"

A cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals whirrs and purrs as she hovers nearby, following closely.

You face lights up as you smile brightly at a cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals.
A cunning, tetrahedral polytope with bright, illumined wings of glittering diamond fractals glances at you suddenly, her body turning a hazy shade of grey.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "Your declaration that you could not imagine me any other way has struck me as prescient. I do harbor a vague fear regarding how a sudden influx of incredible power and responsibility might alter an individual."

Suddenly casting a hand dismissively, Calioliahali Skydrifter says, "My fears are likely unwarranted, for as I have said, there are many viable candidates, and I do not believe I would be seriously considered."

You have emoted: Gurashi's chin finds their hands again, and they consider Calioliahali with a smile. "I would picks you if I were allowed to votes," They warble happily.

In an airy, melodic voice, you say to Calioliahali, "I thinks..."

You have emoted: Gurashi purses their lips as they consider their words carefully, boots scraping the floor under the table. "I thinks, that those problems happen to peoples, who do not have a very certain grasps on themselves. The peoples who are insecure about aspects of themselves, or want more than they could possibly holds." Their wings flap. "You have already expressed that you know who you are, what sorts of goals you have set - the lifes you want to live. You are devoted to your family, above all else unflinchingly! And that includes the city, just the samely."

Whether from the sea or the rain, a friendless mist sheathes the city in sparkling vapour and a bitter, kniving chill.

Calioliahali's expression, usually a hardened, impassive mask, seems to practically melt into one of relief, a much more well-defined smile taking shape upon her lips, if only for this brief, passing moment. "I believe that the logic which you have followed to arrive at that conclusion is sound, and I will freely admit that it has soothed much of my concern." Allowing the smile to linger seconds more as she gazes upon you, she intones sincerely, "Thank you, Gurashi."

You sense the passage of Esei to the east with a fluffy pair of ursine ears.

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles back broadly at Calioliahali, their feathery ears swiveling this way and that. "You are so welcome, Miss Cali," They chirp. "Maybe, you would become a little shinier?" They wonder aloud, grinning. "It would not quite be the samely as getting your names put on a plinths, if you are worried."

A sizzling seafood medley kabob comes lofting in to you from the east, and you catch it nimbly.
A sizzling seafood medley kabob comes lofting in, from the east, to Calioliahali, who catches it nimbly.

You blink.

Bizirik, the leothin immediately lifts its head at the arrival of the mystery kabobs landing on the table. Gurashi drops theirs in their surprise, sending it scattering to the ground, where the leothin wastes no time in rising, wandering over, and gobbling up the lost foodstuffs.

(OOC Clan): You say, "Bizi: FREE FOOD."

You flail about helplessly.

Starry shadows herald Dusan, the coruscant as he deposits a sizzling seafood medley kabob into your hands before dissolving into mist again.
Esei tells you, "For Bizirik."
Your melodic voice sings into Wyrden Auspice Esei Shee-Slaugh of the Ascending Dusk's mind, "A-ah! Oh! Thank you kindly! We all thank you!"

You blush furiously.

You cough softly.

Calioliahali does not remove her gaze from you as the first kabob sails in, then reflexively throws her own hands up as a sizzling seafood medley kabob of her own arrives upon the wind. "Ah. Is this common, in New Celest? Individuals lobbing food at your person?"

Singing drifts in from outside, faintly muffled.

You have emoted: Gurashi finally rises from their seat, rushing over to gather a cloth they have hanging on a hook near the door leading to the back of the shop. "Uh, no! Well." They wipe up the greasy stain on the table, watching as Bizirik eats up any evidence of any kabobs having been flung into the shop in the first place. "My shop, maybe. Or at me." They laugh, embarrassed. "I-I would not say it is common in New Celest, no."

You bunch your shoulders as you giggle softly at Calioliahali.

Beaming, you say to Calioliahali, "Am sorry - that was quite silly, wasn't it? I was going to asks you a thing and now I cannot remember. Something about a plinths... no..."

You have emoted: Gurashi folds their hands together, as if the gesture might help jog their memory. "I am having the most wonderful of times - we must get to-gethers for chatty chats more often, don't you thinks??" They bounce up and down, stepping over Bizirik to collect the wooden skewer before the leothin attempts to swallow it whole.

A shifting, living poppy of beige petals displays a myriad of brilliant colours before its petals coalesce into a shade of deep cimmerian burgundy in the blink of an eye.

You face lights up as you smile brightly at a shifting, living poppy of burgundy petals.

Bizirik, the leothin gives a short gasp of elation.

Calioliahali watches the flurry of movement quietly, still clearly uncertain what is to be done about the kabob in her own possession. Eventually, she settles upon what must be the obvious conclusion, focuses upon it momentarily. The morsels and the stick upon which the food had been skewered dissipates, as if into thin air. Finally, she returns her attention to you, certainly now more prepared to respond.

You have emoted: Gurashi gives the other skewer to the leothin, allowing the creature to scarf down the meat from it while Gurashi's attention is on Calioliahali.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "I would agree with your assessment. I have enjoyed my time with you, both now and in the past, regardless of the venue. Any further occasion that might be spent in your company would be welcomed."

The clouds overhead rumble ominously and bolts of lightning strike the ground, followed closely by peals of furious thunder.

You have emoted: "Wonderful!" Gurashi chirps out, shimmying in their place. "Ah! I think I remember one thing!" Suddenly they strike a pose. "Would you likes to see a shapes? Would you like to picks a shapes to see me be?" They warble excitedly, turning one-hundred and eighty degrees, striking another silly pose, hands waving jazzily until a nearby lighting strike causes them to squawk and jolt in surprise again, ruffling up.

Embarrassedly smoothing out their feathers, you say, "The loud ones get me every time still, ahaha. Ha."

Calioliahali considers the request momentarily, then nods. "All of your forms, as I understand it, are intrinsically you, and therefore none of them are inherently superior, I believe. However, my fondness for the kephera is inclining me towards selecting that race, if you are amenable to such a change."

You ponder the situation.

You have emoted: Gurashi's wings flap, and they consider Calioliahali for a time before chirping in affirmation. "That is just fine," They chirp, though they look very serious. "But I would likes to apologize in advances for whatever happens to my a-pants." With no further explanation, they throw both arms overhead, and suddenly their feathers and flesh are awash in a pale golden glow that grows brighter and brighter, eventually swallowing them up.

(OOC Clan): Calioliahali says, "Fucking dead."
(OOC Clan): Calioliahali says, "Like I can't see lmfao."

Sheets of rain pelt the rooftops of the city: an orchestra of noises that leaves every shingle, window, and gutter slick or waterlogged.

(OOC Clan): You say, "Legspikes and pants are bad."
(OOC Clan): Esei says, ".......is gurashi a keph."
(OOC Clan): Esei says, "And forgot to take their pants off?"

The trill-shaped light shifts before you, wings receding slowly, shape growing taller, angular, sharper--

Golden shades radiate from your chest and your heart beats faster with newly-appeared determination.

Eventually the glow lessens, and where once was warbling is now chittering, motes of light floating down to the ground. Dark chitin replaces what was once flesh and feather, and Calioliahali can now see Gurashi a kephera before her, mandibles chittering excitedly against their face.

You have emoted: Gurashi pauses, looking down at themselves with a gentle, concerned chirr. "Oh." They stop, staring at their pants which sit awkwardly over their inhuman thighs, a half dozen leg spikes stabbing through the fabric on either side. "....aaaaaAAAAAAAA," Their mandibles chitter manically against their face. "I knew it was the risks!" They wobble, trapped by the garments before hastily removing them, throwing them across the shop. "I warned! I knew!"

You remove a pair of black trousers bearing silver stars.

You chitter at Calioliahali with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

You strike a pose.

Bizirik, the leothin strikes a pose.

Bizirik, the leothin snorts, looking startled by its own obedience.

Looking somewhat diminished, they are a compound-eyed kephera kindly demigod changeling. Standing shy of two meters tall, their entire body is plated with a charcoal-black chitinous exoskeleton, housing a broad sunset-hued thorax. At the very center of their chest is what looks to be a scar, or a stain of blue-violet, permanently marring their carapace. Two bulbous red eyes sit on either side of a wedge-shaped head, and a long, thin pair of antennae protrude from atop their skull, the left permanently sagging. Where their mouth would be sits a pair of marred, jagged mandibles. Dual sets of spiny black-and-orange arms are affixed to their torso, the top set of which are long and thewy while the second are spindly and pulled close to their chest. A long abdomen hangs down to their knees, is angled away from their back and ribbed in full muted bands of orange and black. Their legs are long and covered in thick orange plates with tiny black spines tracing down the back of their calves, ending in small segmented dual-toed feet. Set on either side of their lower back are two delicate orbs that rasp and click as they take deep, slow breaths. Two pairs of veiny, translucent wings looking far too small for their body size hang stiffly from their back. A brilliant ivory light suffuses the air about them, pulsing occasionally with a sense of childlike joy.
They are wearing:
a starry wreath of celestial light set atop their head like a halo
an ebon throwover cloak striated with lilac patterns wrapped protectively about their form
a circlet of crystal thorns resting loosely atop their head
a vivid red-orange poppy tucked lovingly behind their left ear
the Mantle of Starlight which flows dreamily about their shoulders and back
a breezy blue cotton tunic which hangs flatteringly from their form
mercurial Mysraian prayer beads pulled taut against their right wrist
a Glomdoring friendship bracelet which jingles softly on their left wrist
minty citrus incense beads pulled taut against their right wrist
aromatic cedar and cinnamon incense beads pulled taut against their right wrist
a shifting, living poppy of burgundy petals worn delicately upon their left wrist
a driftwood ring of sea breezes fitted tightly to their left middle finger
Refined Boots of the Paladin, worn and weathered from use.

You twitch your mandibles as you voice a soft, curious chirr.

Calioliahali watches the entire process carefully, her lips quivering as they struggle to overcome some unknown emotion. They fail, and a smile creeps its way into her expression as the now dubiously-clothed you stands then sits before her. "Thank you for indulging my request, and for offering the choice. The kephera are a marvelous species, and I believe that you in this form are no exception." She pauses, as though considering something momentarily, then asks, "Is it painful?"

You chitter at Calioliahali with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

You have emoted: Gurashi's stiff wings open up against their back before snapping shut again with an audible click. There is a whistle, a series of sounds from their back akin to a raspy whistle. "M-many thank yous. It is my most me-ish shapes, I supposes." They chirr curiously, looking down at themselves, picking at their chitin as if they themselves haven't seen this shape in quite a while. Their smaller pair of hands fold together, and they shake their head. "To change shapes, means? Or to be kephera?" They chirr again.

(OOC Clan): Cheliyi (from the Aetherways) says, "Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "... I sense someone being irresponsible with pants and I have no idea what that means.""
(OOC Clan): Cheliyi (from the Aetherways) says, "Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "... should we go find the disturbance in the Pants Force?""
(OOC Clan): Cheliyi (from the Aetherways) says, "Ocean waves echoing softly behind his voice, Tridemon Regalis, Keeper of Pure Waters says, "I don't know what it is, and I'm pretty sure I don't WANT to know.""

You gaze at Calioliahali appraisingly, antennae twitching in her direction as you turn your attention to her.

You have emoted: Gurashi's secondary hands continue to wring together as they lower their primary ones, bumping awkwardly into their pack, then their lyre as they await the trill's clarification.

Nodding slowly, Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "I suppose it would be most painful changing to a kephera, assuming that your exoskeleton and organs differ substantially from your other forms. I wonder if the process is seamless, or if you experience any sensation at all? Pain would seem most obvious, as bones break and regrow, and the aforementioned organs shift and reshape, or I imagine in some cases, disappear entirely."

You have emoted: Gurashi's mandibles twitch as they consider a response, another high-pitched whistle and a buzzing sound coming from behind them as they sigh and think. "It does not hurt at all. I only struggles with the one shapes," They explain, examining the back of their right hand while offering their left mindlessly to Calioliahali to examine more closely should she choose. "I have never really thoughts about it actually. It is." Their mandibles click thrice. "Warm? Feels more like, stretching when you first wakes up from a loooong nap."

Faintly buzzing, you say to Calioliahali, "It is, differently. It feels differently. The worlds is a little differently, for certains, after the fact." They grimace somewhat. "It is much louder, like this. The Hives are always a-buzzings but when am like this is muchly louder." They nod. "But my body does not hurts, no. Air feels .... different, than with squishy skins. Like this everything is both number, but other things are more sensitives. Things would not notice if had squishy skins. Goosepimples and all."

You chitter at Calioliahali with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Twin bolts of violet lightning feint and weave like duellists lunging at one another, their thrusts through the storm clouds leaving trails of scattered energy.

Your wings flap excitedly behind you.

Calioliahali visibly restrains herself, her hands yet again neatly folded in her lap, but she does marginally lean forward to examine the proffered limb. Eventually she looks up from her examinations, directing toward you, "Is it unpleasant then, given your history with the Hives, being in this form? Is it distracting to feel a closer proximity to them? Perhaps you have learned over the years to carefully tune out the worst of it."

Twin bolts of violet lightning feint and weave like duellists lunging at one another, their thrusts through the storm clouds leaving trails of scattered energy. <-- like 10 seconds

(OOC Clan): Calioliahali says, "What a cool representation of Yugi and Kaiba honestly."
(OOC Clan): Calioliahali says, "It's time to d-d-d-d-duel."

You have emoted: "Unpleasant...?" Gurashi wonders aloud, withdrawing their hand to then all four together placidly, moving them in perfect tandem with one another as they speak. "It takes muchly practices and concentrations, still. And, there are artifacts, that help." They reach up to gently tap at a circlet of crystal thorns, which clearly hasn't left the kephera's head for an age given how embedded into the chitin many of the thorns are. "Can believes something any mortal can buy can helps with suchly a thing?" They wonder aloud. "It helps, having nobody left that lives in the Hives still to know to looks for me. I mean, is Miss Khepqet, but she can use her aethers like any persons." They wave a hand dismissively.

You chitter at Calioliahali with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Calioliahali's gaze follows the kepheran gestures up toward the circlet, her lips pursing before regaining their composure. "It is fortunate that you have acquired such a precautionary measure, yes. In any event, forgive me if coercing you into this form has caused you any measure of distress whatsoever," her gaze flicks down beneath the table, then back to your face, "beyond the obvious." She pauses another moment, then inquires, "Forgive me once more, but I am uncertain I am familiar with this name. Khepqet?"

You chirp happily at Calioliahali.

You glance about alertly, your antennae twitching as you scan the immediate area.

You have emoted: Gurashi's antennae bounce and bob in the air before Calioliahali, the left one sagging slowly over time as they listen. "Oh! Oh no, no no no," They quickly wave all four hands independent of one another. "I yam not distressed! I promise," They insist, chittering before eventually sinking to sit back in the chair opposite of Calioliahali, albeit much more awkwardly, knees bumping against the underside of the table. "Yes! My friend. She is a princess!"

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Or. She was."

You twitch your mandibles as you voice a soft, curious chirr.

Calioliahali's smoky blue gaze drifts once more downwards, toward where the kephera's knees meet the table, then invariably returns to you. "What precipitated her loss in status?"

You have emoted: At this, Gurashi frowns. "Me." Their antennae bob, and they too look down, chittering softly. "She is the only one still alive, that I know for certains. From before the Portals?"

Comprehension flashes across Calioliahali's face.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says, "If it is a memory you do not wish to discuss at length, we may divert to a more pleasant line of conversation."

With sincere concern, Calioliahali Skydrifter says, "Or, perhaps it would be appropriate to adjourn. I have siphoned much more of your time and attention than perhaps you had intended."

You have emoted: Gurashi is uncharacteristically quiet as they Calioliahali, scanning the trill's face, their mandibles half open, ready to click. "I actually have another books," They say, mandibles clicking against their face twice. "I have been more reluctant to share. Because it is not like the Most Beloved's books. But. It is about my time in the Hives, yes. My experience, what Miss Khepqet told to me, back then..." They look towards the door, towards the weather outside, still miserable as ever.

You twitch your mandibles as you voice a soft, curious chirr.

You tilt your head and listen intently to Calioliahali.

Blinking, you say to Calioliahali, "I do not mind."

You chitter at Calioliahali with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Calioliahali nods, her worry abated.

Antennae bobbing as they tilt their head dramatically to the right, you say to Calioliahali, "Anyways, I was going to say, I have another book. But." They pause. "You hold such highly regards for the kephera. And, the books I wrote about it does not paint a very pretty pictures, understand." They offer the trill an apologetic smile best they can with their beak, all their sheepishness held in their gaze. "So have shared it with far and few. The male kephera that I know, my family. The Most Beloved."

You have emoted: Gurashi gently pats both hands against the table, one after the other. "I do not know if it would interest you at all to have, but, if did, I would gives you a copy, yes." They chitter at Calioliahali again. "You are a goodly friends and so I do not mind sharing it."

Calioliahali once more seems to visibly restrain herself, carefully watching you before finally offering in response, "Any insight into your life as a kephera, among the Hives and otherwise, would be most welcome." She pauses then, considering the matter further. "I should clarify, that while I have a persistent interest in both the kephera and the Hives from which they originate, I do not possess any bias regarding their inherent goodness, which I do not believe exists in anyone. It is a professional and personal interest in the cohesion that such a vast and varied collection of individuals might operate so industriously, but I am not so naive to assume that this industry exists without abuses for those the Hive deems as expendable. In addition, I do not condone the unnecessarily gendered assignment of roles. I believe that all individuals should be fairly afforded the opportunity to become a worker, a servant, a warrior, a nurse, or a ruler, rather than conscripted into service at birth and refused any opportunity to advance." She pauses yet again, then reiterates, "All this understood, I would indeed value more insight into your reality, if you would permit such a thing. I would not dare abuse such knowledge."

You gaze at Calioliahali appraisingly, antennae twitching in her direction as you turn your attention to her.

You have emoted: Gurashi smiles weakly.

You have emoted: "Mm," The kephera chirrs, gazing at Calioliahali at first curiously, then fondly. Mandibles clicking energetically once again Gurashi reaches behind themselves to gather a backpack embroidered with wildflowers and bumblebees, carefully setting it down on the table before them so that they may fish through the inside, pulling out an assortment of familiar toys and gadgets that seem unsightly and out of place. Eventually, they find what they are looking for, letting out a gentle insectoid buzz of delight and relief.

You click your mandibles together energetically, chittering to yourself.

You have emoted: Gurashi removes their pack from the table, then carefully sets down a fanciful book of flowery pastels between themselves and Calioliahali, sliding it towards the trill wordlessly.

Golden shades radiate from your chest and your heart beats faster with newly-appeared determination.

Sliding it across the table, you give a fanciful book of flowery pastels to Calioliahali Skydrifter.

Curiously, you say to Calioliahali, "If you would like, you are welcome to keeps the book about the Most Beloved, if you wants. The one I wrotes about Thems? I do not mind if you keeps the book copies I gives to you." They hum. "Unless you do not like many be-longings, which is also fine."

Spidery fingers of crimson lightning flash across the tumultuous skies, gripping the parapets of Deep Blue Cathedral like the hand of an angry god before letting go.

You have emoted: Gurashi jolts a little, bumping the table, causing it to rattle against the floor. "Oh, heckity," They chitter anxiously, looking over their shoulder.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "Eventually I will get used to its."

You click your mandibles together energetically, chittering to yourself.

You chirp happily.

Calioliahali gently accepts the book into her possession, allowing one of her calloused hands to trace over its cover silently before regaining her composure and stowing it carefully among the rest of her belongings. She then returns her gaze directly to you. "If you are not opposed to such an arrangement, neither am I. I would be pleased to keep your writings on my person, both as a keepsake and as a means toward further insight into yourself. You are perhaps the most welcoming and prolific individual within the Collective or its allied organizations I have thus far had the pleasure with which to acquaint myself, and I am grateful for and will continue to be grateful for every moment of your time that you deem me worthy to receive."

You blink.

Faintly buzzing, you chitter, "...prolifics."

You twitch your mandibles as you voice a soft, curious chirr.

You have emoted: Gurashi seems to be going digging through their memory for the word, antennae bobbing as they return their gaze to Calioliahali, chitin around their head and shoulders visible below their cloak seeming to glow pale pink for a time. "Aaaahhh, y-y-you are most kindly, to say so's," They fumblingly dig through their pack again, chittering in their embarrassment. They find a leather bound book of pressed blossoms after some time, blowing some stray glitter off of it before too offering it to Calioliahali.

With a gentle chirp, you give a leather bound book of pressed blossoms to Calioliahali Skydrifter.

You chitter at Calioliahali with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Calioliahali, "Th-that is one of the nicest things I think anybody h-has ever said to me! Ahhh! I enjoy your companies too! I do! I doodly do! You are a goodly persons, yes. A fine Skydrifters." They beam. "A kindly friend."

You chirp happily at Calioliahali.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Calioliahali, "If you ever write any things or make any things I would be most happy to reads and or receives thems, I swears! I would."

You chitter at Calioliahali with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Faintly buzzing, you say to Calioliahali, "Oh! Also someday perhaps you will want to meet Miss Khepqet! She stays with me, know. Has her own spaces in my manse? A safe place for she. She can be a little grumpy but, I think she would enjoy company from someone who likes kephera."

Calioliahali allows another smile to cross her lips, more easily than those that came before it. As it is receding, she nods. "I would gladly reciprocate your generosity, should I ever compose anything of note to share. I am able to promise that much." Nodding a second time, "I would also be most amenable to visiting your friend, if she is not averse to visitors, especially those that have lent their assistance to the Hives in the past. I would not wish to cause undue distress for either of you."

Your shoulders bunch as you let out a short giggle.

Bizirik's head begins to droop. It opens its great maw and curls back its lips to allow its forked tongue to unfurl as it yawns before snapping its mouth shut.

You chitter at Calioliahali with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

You have emoted: Gurashi suddenly fishes out one of the many dozens of sketches of the trill's polytope. "Like, I will take as many of these as you wants to share!" They chitter excitedly. "Once you continues your researches!"

Comprehension flashes across Calioliahali's face.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says, "Those I may certainly continue to provide, yes."

Waving their smaller secondary hands apologetically, you say to Calioliahali, "And, do not worry, I will ask her firstly. She is just, naturally grumpy to everybody, usually. It is not your faults. You are never giving me the distressings yes."

You chitter at Calioliahali with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Nodding once, Calioliahali Skydrifter says, "Understood. Thank you for the opportunity, Gurashi. I look forward to it."

You have emoted: Gurashi sits upright in their seat, the furniture creaking lightly under their weight as they lean back and stretch each arm in a different direction. Their attentions return to the window and the storm outside, mandibles clicking gently against their face. "I hopes the rain ends soonly," They thrum, sitting forward, folding their hands over the tables. "I do so miss the suns."

Turning their attention forward, you say to Calioliahali, "I am having the most wonderful of times, but, I am needing to rest my souls for a time." They cant their head to the side, smiling apologetically. "But let us do this again sometime very soonly yes?"

You chitter at Calioliahali with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

Calioliahali nods her assent, quietly rising from her seat accordingly. "Understood, absolutely. I have shared much of your time, and rest after such a long period of time is not unreasonable. Thank you once more for allowing me to join you here, and to discuss so much with you. I look forward to the opportunity to do so again."

You chitter at Calioliahali with energetic clicks of your mandibles.

You have emoted: Gurashi turns in their seat, not rising though they follow Calioliahali as she does. "You are always welcomes to join me here if ever see me!" They chitter warmly, raising both left hands, then close them into a fists, offering them both to Calioliahali. "Know are not fan of hugs, but would be opposed to a fistbumps farewells?"

Both left hands bobbing in tandem, you say, "Twice the goodbyes for twice the goodlucks."

You's eyes narrow slightly as you grin, mandibles clicking.

The scent of lightning, burnt yet crystalline, salts the air, your nostrils noting its aroma just before the initial crack of thunder echoes across the roiling skies.

Calioliahali perhaps too eagerly offers her own fist to meet the two offered by you, a soft, nearly imperceptible exhale joining the eventual collision of trill hand with kephera ones.

You have emoted: Gurashi giggles again, wings snapping open and shut with audible clicks each. "Stay goodly and kind, yes? And go in Love in all things," They chitter, all four hands folding over the table.

Faintly buzzing, you say, "And the Light. Though you lives in Hallifax. Safe winds?"

You have emoted: Gurashi looks confused as they search for the correct verbal farewell, left antennae sagging, bumping against the top of their head.

You twitch your mandibles as you voice a soft, curious chirr.

Calioliahali Skydrifter says to you, "I understand the sentiment, no matter the phrasing. Be well as well, Gurashi. Enjoy your rest, as you are able."

You chirp happily.

You beam broadly at Calioliahali.

Calioliahali gives you a respectful salute.

You give the world a smart salute.

The tension relaxes as Calioliahali patrols off to the east with authoritative purpose.
You sense the passage of Calioliahali to the east with a fluffy pair of ursine ears.

The glittering dome of light surrounding New Celest shimmers with power as the star high above sparkles ever brighter.

You have emoted: Gurashi chitters softly, watching the trill leave, listening to the little bell above the door jingle as she does. From near the counter, Bizirik snorts, causing the kephera to turn. "What?" They ask. The leothin lifts its head, seeming to grin smugly at Gurashi, eliciting a second louder "What??" from them.

You carapace turns a bright shade of red as you blush.

You click your mandibles together energetically, chittering to yourself.